With their deep library of new and classic films, HBO Max has quickly become one of the best go-to streaming services. Although their standoff with Roku and Amazon continues apace, inconveniencing many subscribers and alienating potential new subscribers, their wealth of high-quality movies can't be beat, making the streaming service worth the HDMI cord (maybe).
Here are some highlights of the best kids and family-friendly movies new to HBO Max this September.
First, a couple of throwback titles, including the 1973 animated film "Charlotte's Web," sure to draw a tear or two in its depiction of a tender friendship between a spider and a pig. Read along with this classic book by E.B. White, and/or pair it with the 2006 "Charlotte's Web" movie on Tubi. Some pig!
Take in a pair of everlasting Hollywood stars with 1943's "Lassie Come Home," starring a 10-year-old Elizabeth Taylor, and everyone's favorite trusty collie, Lassie, in this classic children's film.
A couple of fun animal-themed animated films new to the streamer are 2006's "Barnyard" and "Over the Hedge" (based on the comic-strip). Choose your own adventure with wild or domesticated animals. My pick? "Over the Hedge."
Goofy green ogre "Shrek" has a mysteriously everlasting appeal, which can be put to the test in the fourth installment in the franchise, "Shrek Forever After." The first three films are available on various streaming sites and subscriptions, so consult JustWatch.com to put together your "Shrek" movie marathon.
Or, check out another hero of impressive heft, Dwayne Johnson, in the adventure films "Journey to the Center of the Earth" and "Journey 2: The Mysterious Island." If you prefer your adventure shaken, not stirred, check out the charming kiddie-oriented Bond riff that is the animated "Spies in Disguise," featuring the vocal talents of Will Smith as an international spy who turns into a bird, and his trusty tech support, voiced by Tom Holland. Pigeon Impossible!
